By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach

(KINGS BAY, Ga)- A 2011 Cycreek High School graduate and Houston native is serving aboard the homeport for U.S. Atlantic Fleet’s ballistic missile nuclear submarines.

Petty Officer 1st Class Garett Marcouiller, a master of arms, is responsible for anti-terrosim force protecton for the nuclear subs on base.

“What my true passion is, is to be a part of a fighting team to stop terrorism and ISIS,” said Marcouiller.

The mission at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay is to provide support to the fleet, fighter and family, according to Navy officials. It is the state-of-the-art home to the Atlantic Fleet's Trident submarines and serves as an integral part of the nation's strategic deterrence program.

The Navy’s ballistic missile submarines, often referred to as “boomers,” serve as undetectable launch platforms for intercontinental ballistic missiles. They are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles, and they are the only survivable leg of the nation’s strategic nuclear forces, which also include land-based missiles and aircraft. The Ohio-class design allows the submarines to operate for 15 or more years between major overhauls.

According to Navy officials, submarine sailors are some of the most highly trained and skilled people in the Navy. The training is highly technical and each crew has to be able to operate, maintain, and repair every system or piece of equipment on board. Regardless of their specialty, everyone also has to learn how everything on the ship works and how to respond in emergencies to become “qualified in submarines” and earn the right to wear the coveted gold or silver dolphins on their uniform.

"We demand the highest standards from our sailors - both professionally and personally," said Rear Adm. Randy Crites, commander, Submarine Group 10 in Kings Bay. “Their chain of command, family and our great nation take immense pride in their devotion and service. These sailors are absolutely crucial to ensuring our ships and submarines are operating at their best - always mission ready, providing our nation with the greatest Navy the world has ever known. I'm so very proud these sailors are on our team."

Marcouiller and other sailors know they are part of a legacy supporting the Navy’s most advanced submarines.

“I like the fact that you get to see how powerful what we are protecting is, which most people will never get to see in their lifetimes,” said Marcouiller.

Serving in the Navy, Marcouiller is learning about leadership and managing multiple responsibilities.

“The Navy has matured me and made me a more humble person that has helped me appreciate more in life,” said Marcouiller.